Philippines
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Tubbataha in the Sulu Sea might ring a bell with well-traveled divers, but the Philippines are probably one of the least visited—but one of the most worthy—dive destinations in the world. Located north of Malaysian Borneo and Indonesia, the 7,107 islands in the Philippine archipelago offer a number of top-rated dive areas in addition to Tubbataha—which is only accessible between March and June—including other remote areas such as Apo Reef and Coron, which are only accessible by live-aboard. There is plenty of excellent land-based diving, such as Apo Island—accessible from Dumaguete— where shoals of jacks and giant parrotfish are often seen in addition to large pelagics.
Atlantis Resort Dumaguete
This relaxed first-class eco-resort is located beachfront among several marine sanctuaries. Dive local islands including world famous Apo, Siquijor (Island of Witches), and even fabled Balicasag. Stunning walls, dramatic drifts and some of the best muck diving in Asia are all easily available including abundant resident mandarin gobies. Eco-tours to mountains, caves and local markets round out a mind boggling array of available activities. Packages include first-class accommodations and service, sumptuous meals and up to four day boat dives daily. Chaperoned transfers from Manila are included.
Atlantis Resort Puerto Galera
Visit one of the last undiscovered dive destinations with a biodiversity greater than the Caribbean and Great Barrier Reef combined. Forty world-class dives are located within 10 minutes of this beachfront resort. Located on over six miles of marine reserves featuring pristine coral reefs, beautiful walls and some of the best muck dives in the Philippines—this is a macro photographer’s paradise. An incredible party atmosphere exists for those who have the energy after diving. Packages include first-class accommodations, exceptional service, sumptuous meals, and up to four boat dives per day.
Bahura Resort & Spa
Located in the town of Dauin, this tropical garden resort has eight luxurious villas and 32 deluxe rooms. The house reef offers a window into the underwater world of corals and vibrant fish, while the dive sites at nearby Apo Island feature some truly world-class diving.
